Five Key Reasons Why Marriages Fail—and How to Address Them.

orpmarketing
May 20
3 min read

Marriage is a profound commitment built on love, trust, and shared dreams. Yet, despite the best intentions, many unions falter. In 2021, the U.S. saw approximately 689,308 divorces, with 44% of first marriages ending in separation and second marriages failing at rates as high as 60%. Understanding the root causes of marital breakdown is essential for couples seeking to strengthen their bond or navigate challenges. Drawing on recent studies and expert insights, this post explores five key reasons marriages fail—and actionable steps to address them.

1. Poor Communication: The Silent Marriage Killer

Communication is the lifeblood of relationships, and its absence can erode even the strongest bonds. A 2023 study by the Austin Institute for the Study of Family and Culture, analyzing data from 4,000 divorced adults, identified poor communication as a leading cause of divorce. Avoidance of tough conversations, dismissive attitudes, and constant interruptions breed resentment, leaving partners feeling isolated and undervalued.

How to Fix It:

Schedule regular check-ins for open dialogue (e.g., Sunday morning coffee talks).
Practice active listening: Put devices away, maintain eye contact, and paraphrase your partner’s points.
Seek couples’ therapy or evidence-based programs like the Prevention and Relationship Enhancement Program (PREP) to build healthier communication habits.

2. Financial Stress: When Money Strains Love

Financial disagreements are a top source of marital conflict. A 2023 Forbes Advisor survey of 1,000 divorced Americans found that debt, hidden spending (“financial infidelity”), and mismatched priorities often trigger breakdowns. For example, discovering a spouse’s secret debt during home-buying plans can shatter trust, while job loss or medical bills compound stress.

How to Fix It:

Host a “financial date night” to transparently discuss goals, debts, and spending habits.
Create a joint budget to align priorities (e.g., saving for vacations vs. paying off loans).
Consult a financial advisor for neutral guidance.

3. Infidelity: Breaking the Bond of Trust

Infidelity remains a leading divorce catalyst, cited by 31% of couples in the 2023 Forbes survey. Cheating—physical, emotional, or financial—shatters trust and often stems from unmet needs, dissatisfaction, or unresolved personal issues.

How to Fix It:

Engage in honest conversations about underlying issues (e.g., emotional neglect).
Work with a licensed therapist to rebuild trust and address root causes.
Prioritize intimacy and regular check-ins to prevent disconnection.

4. Incompatible Priorities and Values

Clashing values around career, parenting, or lifestyle breed tension. A 2023 Marriage & Family Review study found that mismatched priorities (e.g., workaholism vs. family time) often lead to distress. The Austin Institute’s 2023 data similarly flagged incompatibility as a key divorce trigger.

How to Fix It:

Discuss core values early (parenting styles, faith, career goals).
Compromise: Blend preferences (e.g., mix travel and staycation plans).
Schedule regular “vision check-ins” to stay aligned as life evolves.

5. Lack of Emotional Support and Connection

Feeling unsupported erodes marital foundations. A 2023 StudyFinds.org article noted that neglecting quality time, dismissing goals, or failing to show up during crises fuels resentment.

How to Fix It:

Schedule dedicated time (e.g., weekly movie nights or walks).
Celebrate wins and support losses—small gestures matter.
Rebuild connection through shared activities, like cooking classes or hobbies.

Conclusion

Marriages don’t collapse overnight—they unravel through unresolved conflicts and neglected bonds. Poor communication, financial stress, infidelity, clashing values, and emotional disconnect are common culprits. Yet, with intentional effort, these challenges can be overcome. Prioritize open dialogue, teamwork, and regular investment in your relationship. As one counselor aptly said, “Self-sacrifice must replace selfishness for a marriage to thrive.” Take the first step today: Have that tough conversation, plan a date night, or seek professional support. Your marriage is worth it.

Sources: Austin Institute for the Study of Family and Culture, Forbes Advisor, Marriage & Family Review, StudyFinds.org